Trust Hospital, AztraZeneca urge greater access to inhaled treatment

Trust Hospital Advocates for Better Asthma Care on World Asthma Day

The Trust Hospital is calling for better access to inhalers for asthma patients in Ghana. This aligns with the global observance of World Asthma Day 2025. The focus is on equitable respiratory care.

An event took place at the hospital’s Premium Centre in Accra. Medical professionals, patients, health advocates, and stakeholders attended. They gathered under the theme: “Make Inhaled Treatment Accessible to All.” The event aimed to raise awareness and advocate for improved asthma management.

Dr. Juliana Oye Ameh, CEO of Trust Hospital, delivered the keynote address. She described asthma as a major public health challenge in Ghana and beyond. “Over 96 percent of asthma-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries,” she noted. Access to life-saving inhalers is often limited or unavailable.

Globally, asthma affects over 262 million people and causes more than 455,000 deaths each year. In Ghana, it significantly contributes to hospital admissions and mortality rates among children and adults in underserved communities.

Dr. Ameh highlighted the hospital's dedicated asthma clinic. This clinic provides personalized care plans and education for patients. She shared a success story about a child who thrived after receiving regular care from the clinic.

She emphasized the need for collective action to improve asthma management in Ghana. “Asthma remains a significant cause of illness,” she stated. The event was supported by AstraZeneca, which partners with Trust Hospital to enhance access to asthma care.

Mrs. Dorothy Arthur from AstraZeneca presented on proper asthma management techniques. She stressed the importance of using inhaler devices correctly, particularly the Turbuhaler. “Proper inhaler technique ensures patients receive full medication benefits,” she explained.

Dr. Allen Steele-Dadzie discussed that while asthma is manageable, it is not curable. He advocated for early diagnosis and enrollment in asthma clinics for proper monitoring and timely treatment.

Dr. Selassie Amegashie shared insights from a case study on targeted asthma care benefits. He emphasized the need for ongoing public education and patient support.

Dr. Nana Ama Abankwah addressed adult-onset asthma's rising prevalence as a non-communicable disease issue. She expressed concern over underestimating asthma deaths in developing countries: “We must prioritize better diagnosis and treatment.”

The session concluded with an open Q&A session for attendees to engage with clinicians about managing asthma conditions.

Trust Hospital urged all health sector stakeholders to collaborate on improving outcomes for asthma patients nationwide.

Dr. Ameh concluded by stating, “Together, we can prevent unnecessary deaths and enhance quality of life.”